Pets Guide
While Morrowind doesn't feature traditional 'pets' in the same way as some later Elder Scrolls titles, there are a few ways to acquire animal companions or creatures that can accompany you. These can range from summoned creatures to loyal animal friends obtained through quests or specific game mechanics. Understanding how to acquire and utilize these companions can add an extra layer of strategy and immersion to your playthrough.
The primary way to have a creature accompany you is through Summoning Spells. Mages can learn various spells that conjure creatures to fight alongside them. These summoned allies can be incredibly powerful, acting as distractions for enemies, providing additional damage, or even offering unique utility depending on the creature summoned.
Here are some common summoning spells and the creatures they conjure:
- Summon Ancestral Ghost: A spectral ally that can deal magical damage and is resistant to physical attacks.
- Summon Bonewalker: A skeletal creature that can inflict disease and is quite durable.
- Summon Clannfear: A Daedric creature known for its ferocity and ability to inflict curses.
- Summon Daedroth: A powerful Daedric entity that is a formidable combatant.
- Summon Flame Atronach: A fiery elemental that deals fire damage and can be resistant to fire itself.
- Summon Frost Atronach: A cold elemental that deals frost damage and can slow enemies.
- Summon Storm Atronach: An electrical elemental that deals shock damage.
- Summon Will-o-the-Wisp: A lesser magical entity that can be useful for distracting weaker foes.
These spells are learned from spell merchants or found as spell scrolls. The effectiveness of your summoned creature depends on your Conjuration skill and the Magicka available to cast the spell. Higher Conjuration skill allows you to summon more powerful creatures and maintain them for longer durations.
Beyond summoned creatures, there are a few unique instances where you might acquire a more permanent animal companion:
- The Kwama Egg: While not a traditional pet, you can find Kwama eggs. If you manage to hatch one (often through specific mods or advanced game mechanics), it might follow you. However, this is not a standard feature of the base game.
- Quest-related Animals: Certain quests might involve temporarily escorting or protecting an animal. These are usually scripted events and not permanent companions.
It's important to manage your summoned creatures effectively. They can be targeted by enemies, and if their health reaches zero, they will dissipate. Position yourself strategically to protect your summons, and use them to your advantage in combat. Some creatures have unique resistances or weaknesses, so choose your summons wisely based on the enemies you are facing.
While Morrowind's pet system is not as robust as in later games, the ability to summon creatures offers a sificant strategic advantage for magic-users. Mastering the Conjuration school can turn the tide of battle in your favor.